Vertical Technologies and Relational Values: Rethinking Ethics of Technology in an Age of Extractivism

Area of Science:

• Ethics of Technology
• Sociotechnical Systems Analysis
• Environmental Ethics

Background:

• The field of technology ethics often overlooks the material, environmental, and social conditions of technology.
• A significant "extractivist blindspot" hinders a comprehensive ethical analysis of technological development.

Discussion:

• Critiques the focus on individual technical artifacts, advocating for a shift towards analyzing layered sociotechnical systems.
• Proposes expanding the conceptual resources beyond intercultural philosophy to address extractivism.

Key Insights:

• Technology ethics needs a radical shift from artifact-centric analysis to sociotechnical systems.
• Overcoming the "extractivist blindspot" requires integrating diverse philosophical perspectives.

Outlook:

• Future research should prioritize the ethical implications of sociotechnical systems.
• Developing a more inclusive and comprehensive framework for technology ethics is essential.